The Quirky & Functional Thrift Store Find That We Want To Put Back In Our Kitchens

There are some outdated kitchen trends that we're more than happy to let fade out — hot dog cookers, orange-tinted oak cabinetry, low-quality laminate — but there are also plenty more that deserve a revival. As our tastes collectively start to shift away from somewhat formal-feeling, minimalist rooms bathed in sleek, all-white tile, many are searching for opportunities to make their cooking spaces feel more like home. While a full-scale custom kitchen renovation will certainly accomplish this goal, sometimes all you need is a little accent that helps to nod to your personality and interests.

That's where wall-mounted bottle openers can come in. Popular throughout the 20th century, these little devices did more than just assist in popping open your favorite bottled beverages. Often featuring unique, kitschy designs, wall-mounted bottle openers served as a piece of decor when not in use, frequently adding a touch of humor or silliness to an otherwise-functional space. Funny faces, wild animals, punny phrases, and graphic logos are all common features, so regardless of your interests or sense of humor, you're sure to be able to find an option that feels perfect for you and your home.

Thankfully, these wall-mounted devices aren't all that difficult to stumble across secondhand, either. Because they're often made of heavy-duty cast iron, they can last for decades without so much as a ding. Vintage, retro, and modern designs all frequently find their way to thrift and antique stores, ready to be mounted and used after a quick clean.

There's no shortage of wall-mounted bottle opener options to choose from. If you're a fan of classic home decor trends and prefer a more traditional aesthetic, stick with simple metal options emblazoned with an iconic logo, or try out an animal head that feels both fun and rooted in tradition. For those that enjoy a bit of quirkiness or humor in interior design, your options are near limitless — goofy faces are common, as are backing boards that feature cheeky sayings and toasts. In many cases, these designs lean kitschy, raunchy, or ridiculous, likely owing to the fact that they were frequent additions to man caves and bars rather than central fixtures in the home. Look out for pieces at the thrift store and at antique malls for the best deal, but if you have a specific design in mind, you'll likely be able to find one for less than $30 through online resale platforms like eBay, Etsy, and Facebook Marketplace.

While there are plenty of places to hang a wall-mounted bottle opener, it's important to consider functionality first. These devices will see a lot of rattling around and pressure during use, so make sure to mount your opener directly on a solid wood surface or a stud. It should also be at a comfortable height so you can properly leverage your weight to actually open the bottle — below the hip or above the eye isn't ideal. Once you've narrowed down your choices, there are still a range of mounting locations that make sense. On the side of the cabinet, by the refrigerator, near the trash can, or right next to your favorite hangout spot are all convenient picks.